Research into neo-Nazi online communities

Dr Lorraine Bowman-Grieve of Leeds Trinity University College has recently published post-doctoral research into radical right-wing communities on the internet.

The research goes beyond analysis of didactic propaganda text on websites to examine the interpersonal nature of web social spaces, forums, blogs (Web 2.0).

It presents a case study of Stormfront, a multi-organisational online community for the discussion of neo-nazi views and experiences.

She discusses the recruitment power of interpersonal engagement through personal accounts of “awakenings” [the preferred term within the discourse of the community] to racial consciousness and activism and through question and answer sessions between “elders” of the community and “newbies”. In addition, members post advice about cultural activities to support the ideology, including ethnically restricted dating services, book and music reviews, etc.

Dr Bowman-Grieve endorses the view that “Perceptions of validation may be achieved from the very fact that these individuals see themselves as utilizing the same “cutting edge technology” used by other intelligent and creative people in society; sophisticated engagement with technology carries with it a perception of inherent value and legitimacy. Such validation may influence the decision of individuals to become more involved with a terrorist movement.”